If 'other’, please specify
Canadian Born with strong British influence
World citizen - with strong Scottish roots
Human - not really in to identifying by nationality
It really depends. Sometimes I am just Scottish, sometimes just British.

If 'other’, please specify
Forgotten white anglo saxon protestant who used to be the majority in this country
Human - that question is 20th century rubbish
What kind of question is this. I am White British or is there no such race any longer?

If 'other’, please specify
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

If 'other’, please specify
Conference Co-ordinator - requires degree
Public relations and speech writing type work
carpet maker for cars now a full time carer to my wife who has m.e
i AM NOW A FULL TIME CARER FOR MY DISABLED HUSBAND
Student, will be fully qualified as teacher in June, start probation year in August 2007
Laboratory Technician Further Eduction College
Wasa caereer until recently , standing for election for local council
How on earth can you equate social workers with professionals such as accountants?
I am a full time student and work part time as a checkout supervisor
pupil support assistant in a primary school
Advertising/print design/ writer/poet/artist/voluntary sector admin

If 'other’, please specify
He works in a sports complex as a supervisor\lifeguard
Foster Carer with associated child care qualifications
computer operator for the oil rigs companies (IMIS Operator)
Worked for Armed Forces/library assistant

If 'other’, please specify
Loan from former employer pending finalisation of pension funding

If 'other’, please specify
national certificate of professional competence (road haulage)
Chartered Institute of Banking Qualifications
fellow of chartered institute of patent attorneys
Millar certificate (Ambulance) Ambulance Aid Instructor Cert.
military air traffic controller (retired)
Optical Technicians Certificate ~ SMC (Tech)
US Air Force Aerospace Electronics Engineer
Fellow of the Institute of Manufacturing
Management Diploma; Certificate in Family History studies
ACIB( Associate of the Chartered Instute of Bankers)
currently studying part time whilst working for degree (BA (Hons)) in Management
GCE O levels, Professional Qualifications
BS5750 and ISO9000 Quality Management Systems Internal Auditing
(MRICS) Member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors
Associate of Chartered Insurance Institute
city&guilds level 3. nebosh gereral crtificate.
QMP Accreditation - SVQ Frontline Guidance
Chartered Member of the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health
shipmaster qualifications to command foreign going ships
Yorkshire Certificate of Further Education in Advertising Design
MEMBER OF THE CHARTERED SOCIETY OF PHYSIOTHERAPY

If ‘Other’, please specify which party
spoiled the ballot paper as a protest at the exsistance of the scotish parliment

If ‘Other’, please specify what reason
Wanted to send a message to SNP that I am against Scottish Independence
I wanted a smaller party to have a say in parliament and thought this 'top-up' list was the best way to do this.
although i dont agree with all of greens policies i believe they represent a moral standpoint that i can agree with.
I really don't think any of the main parties are interested in their constituents, this party at least shares my values
The need for balance away from Labour and SNP
New party that appealed to me, thought i would give them a vote to see how they were placed
think it is time senior citizens had a say, we have been ignored.
Would have liked a box that said 'Nobody'. Emded up voting for Labour by eliminating everyone else
i thought i would give my vote to a party,which for the first time ,are interested in giving the older generation a voice.
The candidate is a work colleague whos motives are sound
I feel that Labour are assuming too much in Scotland but am not quite happy about SNP' policies re.devolution
I do not believe that senior citizens have sufficient voice in politics
As a protest against the labour government and its policies on immigration, the war in Iraq and its inability to deal with crime.
Best of a bad bunch. I didn't like Labours tax history but it is better than going indpendant and the mess the SNP will incur on scotland.
My son was standing for them in an adjacent council election - so I showed Solidarity!
As the most effective way to stop the SNP ruining Scotland by breaking away from the UK and its relatively successful Labour Government
I want independence and only the SNP can deliver. I want to punish Labour for almost everything. I want to 'Stop the Tram'.
I think the Greens are an effective pressure group on environmental issues.
It was an exercise in picking the best from a bad bunch.
Honest open candidate, not scared to say what they think regardless of party politics in thepast
Was worried if I voted Lib Dem (as I always have previously) they would go into coalition with the SNP.
They are the least worst - of a very sad bunch. If we have been 'led' were is it we have been taken? Up a creek and still paddling as far as one can tell and trident and more nuclear are perfect indicators of just how sad a bunch the leadership are.
I wanted to support a particular candidate on the list.
I did not want to vote for any of them to be honest-but I do not want independence.It was the best of a bad bunch!!
I didn't want Labour to get in. I didn't want to vote for independence (as a vote for the SNP would be). I didn't want the Lib Dems power sharing with Labour. So I voted Tory, despite not agreeing with a few of their election manifestos.
I like none of the bigger parties, and knew that the Greens would not win a majority. I wanted to vote, but not for any of the parties who might win
To register my protest at the amount of immigrants entering Britain. I feel they swamp our culture rather than enrich it. Many are violently intolerant of those who do not share their particular religion or beliefs and would deny them those rights. If thi
Scottish independence before all other reasons
To place my Votes in the best way to stop the SNP and the Libdems.
I am an SNP voter, but I detest the leadership of the party. Messrs salmond and Sturgeon are fifth rate and are not the people to lead Scotland towards self determination. We need a strong counterpoint in Scotland therefore I voted for Labour in the Regio
dindt want to vote labour snp libdem or anysilly party so went with consevitive
I thought SNP would get rid of the Labour party
Strategic vote in an attempt to oust the current holder of the post in my constituancy
The Environment seemed to me the most important issue at the moment
I want independence to resile from the failed Westmister Parliamentary system. I do not want to end the union, but am prepared to accept this as a consequence of getting back to a situation where cabinet and parliament are not marginalised.
I wanted to stand up for Christian politicians
War in Iraq turned me against Labout. Now strongly believe Scotland should go it alone.
The Labour party failure to consult on Trident meant I was unable to support them.
Voted to raise Labouur's share of the vote to keep SNP out
Although not an OAP I am strongly of the opinion our older citizens deserve more respect in the form of a better standard of living.
I would have liked to vote for the greens, but thought it was better to use both my votes for the same party as the Greens had no chance of getting in. It would have been easier had the Regional and Constitutional votes been on different days.
I think MM is a sensible woman and she gets things done without any party political nonsense
Disenchantment with main parties; closest I had to a protest vote
(1) Labour's failure to establish a voice in Scotland/ Hollyrood independent of the UK/ Westminster party machine (2) Labour's failure to deal with its discredited Leader Blair
The party I choose is one which has represented the interests of persons like me in the local community, unlike the larger and more political parties.
I thought it the least bad of the choices available - would be good to have a 'none of these parties' option
Believe SNP will destroy the union as per Salmons statement and ruin scottish economy so voted for rival party who have done well in this area
Becasue I know how hard working the associated MSP is of that party.
To exert minority pressure on the Scottish Parliament for environmental policies
Fed up with the Labour stranglehold on local politics
I thought there should be some real Greens in the Sc parliament
Dont expect the candidate to win, but want my vote to be seen to support him so other parties will have to take environmental issues seriously as a way of appealing to the voting public.
Has move views similar to my own than the others
ANYTHING to make life difficult for NuLabour
I want Labour out and voting SNP was the only way to achieve that. I do not yet wholly support the SNP in their drive for independence.
Altho0ugh I always vote in the way that I did, on this occasions my vote was a result of serious consideration of the issues and consequences
The stated aims of the party I voted for are very much in line with my own thinking
Desparate to get Labour out. My natural party had no chance but the SNP looked like they could achieve it so voted for them.
Although it was for the Conservatives, it was also a tactical vote - anything to try and keep the SNP out or reduce their share of the vote. In my area / region Conservatives were second to the SNP - thus if Labour had been I would have voted for them.
I think if the SNP get in they will concentrate on destroying the Union, though I would like the Scottish Parliament to have more powers I do not want the Union dissolved. I would never vote Conservative - the image of Thatcher still looms large and the o
I want the Greens to ahve some voice in our government as I believe environmental issues are key.
Fed up with Labour hanging on to Blair's coat tails
Having been a Labour supporter, member until recently, I was always opposed to an independant Scotland however I have become more of a nationalist in the last year or so and decided to vote for Alex Salmond (SNP) in the regional vote.
The party most likely to stop the S.N.P.
Would not have won local seats due to predicted strong holds in the Glasgow constituencys.
I was concerned about the SNP winning a majority and felt voting Labour was the best way to prevent that.
The party I voted for was going to reverse the decision to close my local hospital
Least bad of the left-wing parties (and I admire Tommy)
I'm interested to see what Salmond would do; he won't have enough power to wreck the union, I hope.
Labour have done less than nothing. Have had a big fall our with our MSp so decided it was time for a change
I am a committed Christian and thought it best to support those standing up for Christian issues
I normally vote Liberal Democrat but I want a referendum on independence.
although I dont agree with everything the SNP does (e.g. trident) - they are the ones most closely relating to some of the things that I think is important
I voted for a specific person because I thought that person would be good for scotland
They are all theives and in it for their own good. I just picked Lib Dem because they seemed the lesser of the evils
I wanted to give my regional vote to a party I supported but who were unlikely to gain a lot of constituency votes
I felt it was important that the Greens had some representation in the Scottish Parliment
Because I didn't want Labour to get in and SNP were the closest leaders
I want a scottish parliament then I will vote socialist
The only party to have real policies on immigration and law and order
labour sleaze infecting the outgoing labour candidate
I don't agree with all their policies but I like to see the smaller, more radical parties win a few seats, so they can stir things up and introduce new topics at Parliament.
sick of labour spin and scottish poor performance
I wanted to vote for this party in the party list vote although wouldn't have voted for their main candidate.
It was the only party (other than the disappointingly shambolic UKIP) that represents my views on the EEC
I disagree strongly with the European Union and this was my chsnce to register my protest
Protest against Lab/lib-dem pact. It's time for a change in Government. Labour did not learn from the mistakes of the last Torry Government, they are even more corrupt. Political Correctness is now out of control we need some common sense back into polit
Didnt want SNP to be in power, and the green party is my preferred party
I know and trust the candidate to do her best
protest vote due to the down-grading of monklands hospital accident and emergency department
we need more diversity in the parliament
Because I hate the current anti-christian stance of all the political parties
Has The Best Green policies and approach for the future existence of Scotland,Europe and globally
because although normally a labour voter I was determined not to vote labour this time because I believe Tony Blair misrepresented the case for going to war and should have resigned before the election. To vote labour would by implication have accepted t
I wanted a Liberal-Labour coalition executive
our political elite have taken our voting habits for granted and it shows . The arrogance that now prevails is stifling and what I would like to happen is for the parties that are represented in Scotland which really are London based Torys , labour etc
I thought it was best to give both votes to the snp to ensure they won. I wouls normally give my regional vote to another party in the interest of democracy.
Unhappy with Labour stranglehold on Scotland
I am near retirement, and feel that pensioners need a voice in politics
they said they would abolish council tax
I like this party but they were not standing in my constituency so this was the only way i could vote for them
Scottish Parliament needs a good shake-up; SNP seems best to do it. Also - protest at Iraq war
I like some of the Green's policies but I voted for them primarily because I am disillusioned with Labour, do not support the SNP leadership (although I agree with some of their policies) and wanted to vote for another party other than the Lib Dems, whom
Best chance of removing sitting Labour MSP
i feel we need a green presence in the executive
it is for my age group, although they are a fairly new party hopefully their voice would be heard at Holyrood
wanted them to havea voice in parliment and thought it was the best way to get them in
Hoped there would be a need to include them to form a coalition and thus influence executive policy on environmental issues.
to try and include some minority parties in the parliament - not successfully as it happens
Looked for policies that I thought would benefit the region best and voted accordingly
I really preferred another party but it was more important to me to vote against the SNP
I voted for an independant as I thought they were the best candidate
I don't like the way the labour governments, either national or scottish have handled their affairs, I don't like any of the liberal policies, and I don't agree with separatism, hence I dindt vote Scottish Nationalist
i am labour supporter but did not vote labour because of iraq and blair
It's time somebody managed to put policies into place to help older people.
Not Happy with Labour but despise the others
to increase representation from smaller parties in the Scottish Parliament
I liked this party's policies but would not normally vote for this party as am a supporter of another political party.
Wanted top of list candidate to be in the parliament
I am in disagreement with regards to the so called Goods & Srvices Legislation
Wanted to be sure Alex Salmond got into power as I live in the Gordon constituency and wasn't sur he would win the constituency vote. Normally the greens would get my reional vote.
They stand for the values that I feel the Labour Party should.
Keep the pressure on other political parties.

If ‘Other’, please specify which party
spoiled the paper as a protest at the exsistance of thse scotish parliment
Did not vote as there was no good candidate
Got it wrong as there were two labour candidates and I marked them both.
i did not vote in that list as there was no candidate i could endorse

If ‘Other’, please specify what reason
tactical vote to weaken the chance of SNP candidate getting elected
i felt i had no option as i would normally vote labour but i morally couldnt because of trident and iraq. a vote to green seemed morallt right.
Strong tradition of Lib Dems here and I like the candidate personally.
I voted for this particular person because I genuinly believe he thinks he can make a difference. At the end of the day we vote for people who want things to change, not just say they will to gain seats, we need real change e.g crime and anti social behav
The candidate stood the best chance of beating the present incumbent.
As before, didn't want to vote for any of them, ended up voting labour after eliminating all the others
I liked the individual candidate, and although I don't support the SNP I no longer support the Liberal Democrats because of the disgraceful conduct around the last leadership change. I would not vote Labour because of Iraq, ID cards / ID register and cert
i think it is time Scotland took its destiny into its own hands.
Voted for the person rather than the party
Although I have tendency to consider Conservatives first I also I thought the person was the best for the area
The candidate worked well for this area when she was an MSP
Kick up the arse for Labour - Can't stand my local Labour candidate, Donald Anderson
seemed the best way to screw labour while not showing support for the tories (i don't like cameron and didn't want him to have a good night).
As before Labour traditionally win votes in this area and I think they are taking too much for granted. Also I feel they are letting the middle income bracket down.
A protest vote against the labour candidate Joke McConnell
I liked parts of many constituency promises but again i didn't want the SNP to win so the best of a bad bunch was labour.
I think he has been an excellent MSP over the last 4 years
To stop the SNP: see answer to previous List Q.
Ditto. We're a marginal lib dem/labour seat and even though I voted lib dem last time because of the threat of them going into coalition with the snp I voted labour.
No monster raving loony candidate was available
I did not vote for the party but did vote for the MSP as they have done a good job over the past four years
Again I did not want to vote for any of them - I had to vote for someone and I do not want independence.
As before, more to prevent Labour getting in.
I disliked the other parties more than this one
saw sitting SNP MSP at an election hustings and was put off by his performance and politics
Part protest vote against Labour (the Scottish Labout party has to shoulder some of the blame for decisions made to go to war in Iraq and to replace Trident etc.), part a vote to shake things up: the union's a mess with the current devolved system only wo
I could never vote Labour whilst Blair forms any part of it. I believe in a United Kingdom so the SNP is not an option, I remember the lies and mis-information of the Liberals during the last local By-Election - Conservative received my vote by default
It was the party with the closest resemblance to SSP that I was able to vote for
To place my Votes in the best way to stop the SNP and the Libdems.
The local candidate was the only one from all the parties who was against the proposed windfarm on Lewis.
The candidate was an outstanding individual who contributes to local life and deserved a chance to represent us at a higher level.
while I do not support Labours national government, I do think they have performed well in the Scottish parliament. I would have voted green if a candidate had been available
Sitting member who did well for the costituence
I like David Cameron and I feel business and industry in Britain need a party who understands them. I am also fed up paying high taxes from our families one income to subsidise childcare for families with two earners.
The party I prefer did not have a candidate
Same reasons as above. To escape the kind of government that allows one man to rule.
I liked the candidate and what he stood for. Also, Willie Rennie MP has been good for the Dunfermline West constiuency in Westminster, so it's time to see how a Lib Dem MSP does.
Although I knew a LibDEm vote was a lost cause - and the result has proved that to be true - Labour has to realise they cannot govern without the consent of the electorate.
Would have preferred to vote Green or Scottish Socialist but no candidate stood locally.
In my constituency there was no prospect of my favoured party, the Conservatives, prevailing. I therefore voted Labour in an attempt to thwart the SNP.
Voted for the candidate in spite of his party.
(1) Local SNP MSP's proven track record in opposing the despoiling of the Highland landscape by Wind Factories (2) Labour's failure to establish a voice in Scotland/ Hollyrood independent of the UK/ Westminster party machine (3) Labour's failure to deal
I did not want to vote for the incumbent government - this left only this party. I would never vote for the Conservatives.
Least bad option and certainly preferable to SNP (the other likely winner in this constituency).
The British National Party did not have a candidate and the next party with ideals similar to my own was the conservative party
Voted for the candidate based on his good record
Becasue of the particular person I see as representing my interests best.
There were no parties I supported offering candidates for my constituency - best of a bad bunch!
Dissatisfied with Westminster / Scottish Labour Parties
The MSP responded favourably and personally to contact from me
I thought they had a good local campaign and work hard for local issues all the time, not just at elections
Independant candidate fighting on a local issue
I feel all politicaisn are much the same nowadays, but i prefer the integrity of the lib dems
The candidate campaigns hard for the constituency
I thought they had the regions and my best interests uppermost in their voting/interests and not a 'political' career
Did not want to vote labour or conservative
They are committed to stopping the downgrade of our local hospital.
I voted labour because I do not want Scotland to split with England so as I see that the election was a two horse race between labour and the SNP I felt that I had to vote labour
The same reason I gave to the last question.
I used this as a protest vote because I believed (correctly)that the Lib Dem candidate would win. I wanted to show that I was in favour of many of the SNP ideas
Don't like any of the three main parties but chose Tory just so the others didn't get my vote.
I thought they would bring a balance to the Executive and I agree with some of their policies.
Again, a Tory vote to try and block / stem the SNP charge!
I have had occasion to contact my MP and he was very helpful therefore I voted for him to represent this constituency again.
It was a tactical vote to try to keep the SNP out.
thought it was the best way of making a protest against the present labour msp
That individual MSP has done a lot for these area with regards to underage drinking etc. Much as I don't want SNP in power, as an individual he will do a lot of good for the community.
Disliked the candidate for the other party I would normally vote for.
I felt unable to make a decision between LDs and SNP and therefore this was in a sense a no vote!
This MSP has been very helpful to me and my neighbours and we are grateful to him and want to keep him
To stop labour and Jack Mcconnell getting control of scottish executive
The candidate I voted for works hard for my local area
I believe the individual candidate, David McCletchie, has been a good politician
Voted for incumbent MSP based on his track record
I voted for the independance party ( SNP )so that my socialist vote will count in an independant scotland
tatical vote! To stop SNP getting in power
I thought that the candidate would be likely to work hard for the area, based on past performance.
Least unattractive option compared with Labour, SNP & Lib Dems
Best of a bad bunch and it didn't occur to me to leave it blank
protest vote due to the down-grading of monklands hospital accident and emergency department, voted green because i dont really want snp to have too many seats
I admired the candidate despite her party
There was no green representative in my constituency
we need more diversity in the parliament
Only the main four parties provide candidates, so couldn't vote for preferred party
I wanted to be sure there was a good mix if politicians at parliament with the ability? to implement their policies.
The candidate was an existing Member and his PROVEN energy and commitment to the electorate and local people/ISSUES DESERVED MY TRUST AND vote
i feel that the labour mp didnt deserve my vote
I was sure of the system when I entered the polling station but could not understand why there were two candidates from the same party. I the heat of the moment I was confused by the 'you have two votes' at the top of the page and put down two votes on th
As before - a vote for labour candidate would have implied that Blair's misrepresentation of the case for iraq war case was acceptable behavior by a politician.
I voted for the person and the work she had put in to a specific problem in my area
Their local team are the best in our area
I voted for the individual - not for a party
I really didn't want the horrible Nicola Sturgeon to win Glasgow Govan, so I voted tactically, but she still got in and I'm very disappointed.
Thought they deserved a chance to show what they were made of
they said they would abolish council tax
In protest at current goverments policies
Wanted to ensure neither labour nor SNP got in
His manifesto was to keep a local hospital
Best chance of removing sitting Labour MSP
Our MSP is a good bloke, very helpful, experienced and hard working. He has done a good job and I'm sorry to see him go. Now we have an untried Tory - Oh the shame of it!!
I didn't want to choose any of these parties but as there was only the 4 choices it was the best of a bad bunch.
My vote would have been wasted as my seat is safe for another party.
Current consituency MSP (Labour) is terrible.
again voted for the policy that I felt would benefit Scotland best
I always have voted SNP, _after_ considering all the options.
It had the best chance of beating the SNP
voted for independant candidate as I thought they were the best person for the job
labour voter but did not vote labour because of iraq and blair
To Vote against SNP as it was between Labour and SNP
A good independant unconstrained by party politics does more good than 10 squabbling party members
i did not vote for the constituency candidate as there was no-one i could endorse and i did not have enough information to enable me to vote tactically. the polling station people said i did not have to vote in the second list - voting only once would not
The candidate has been exceptional in the last 4 years.

If ‘Other’, please specify what reason
two main reasons were the war in iraq, our present relationship with the bush administartion and the US and the decision to renew trident- all which meant i could not vote for labour.
My feelings about polititians as a whole
I voted on which party would be best for Scotland as a whole and then for the candidate who would best represent the needs of the constituency that I live in.
While I consider Scotalnd and local isasues I am involved in, I feel the national (british sense) is very important to consider as Scottish Political parties are strongly influenced by British Political Parties
I voted for the candidate who was most likely to address issues that are important to me
because I fell my MSP does a lot for this area therefore deserves another term
Fed up with Labour and Lib Dems constantly attacking sporting estates in Scotland. They should have listened to the practitioners not the pressure groups
I voted Conservative because I consider they are the best party.
For a truly democratic say in the future of Scotland
This is a bad-worded Q. (a)I want to say yes to the first two options, and (b)because Scotland is an integral region of the UK you cannot split the options in the way this Q does.
Candidates who are aware of what is going on in Scotland and Britain but also our place in the world as a whole.
Actually I voted mostly according to what's going on in the world as a whole and by thinking about how I want Scotland to work in the future, bearing in mind our global responsibilities. So yes, Britain's foreign policy and defence decisions were obviousl
Mostly for what I believe affects me personally.
I wanted to try to oust the current holder of the post.
I believe the war in Iraq brought an increased risk of terrorism and now feel Scotland would be better seperate from a warmongering British nation.
Labour/SDP has lost direction and are now doing nothing - Badly
I voted SNP as I believe both that it's the best party to ensure Scotland becomes independant, and because Alex Salmond is one of the few politicians whom I believe to be truly honourable.
A roughly equal mix of UK and Scottish issues
I believe that the UK is a spent force and that the only way that w can have a decent society, like those I have found on the Continent, is by having an independant Scotland
A combination of both Scottish and British reasons
How I see govenment decisions effecting my and neighbours lives.
The first two choices do not give me much of an option. I voted the way I did for a combination of both of these reasons, no more or less. The issues are equal.
mostly because of what was going on in Scotland AND Britain
Equally for what is going on in Scotland and on specific issues, some of which are local but under the Executive's, rather than the local council's remit.
Exclusively according to what was going on in Scotland. Reserved matters are irrelevant in elections for devolved government
Thought they would shake up Labour - refuse to vote Lavour this time because of the too severe smoking ban, and Gordon Browns pension take and 2 week bin collections due to his land fill tax
Moral/political principles, independent of events and national boundries.
I felt that the people of Scotland have the right to say whether or not they wanted independence and that therfore no party had the right to oppose a referendum
My own personal choice but Labour have outrun their time
for independance. So that a real socialist party can represent me in an independant scotland. Labour is not socialist nor is it democratic
I had a quick look online at the main parties manifestos and decided from there.
We needed a change from not listening labour
I voted for the SNP party as I think we need fresh blood in Scottish politics and I wanted to give the SNP a chance to prove themselves. I am sick of Labour's endless taxes and handouts to those who can work but choose not to. I am disgusted that crime ha
according to what was going on locally in north lanarkshire
I always vote Conservative regardless of what is going on
Because it is the way I have voted since I became of age to vote
I felt I had to vote this way to try to keep SNP out.
cos i hate the snp cos af far as im concerned the snp stand for scottish nazi party
as this caused problems for labour and snp
Vote determined by who was best on environmental issues
Like income tax for local taxation, like more powers for Scotland and don't like some of current empahsis in LP
I agreed with its policies and manifesto commitments
a balance between what has been happening in Britain as a whole and my feelings about the performance of the previous ruling coalition

If ‘Other’, please specify which party
I would need to understand the implications of the entire system before I could answer the question.I would Vote in the best way to defend the Union.
I would like the secrecy of my vote respected

If ‘Other’, please specify which party
I would have only used a single vote - deliberately
I would not have used my second preference vote
I would need to understand the implications of the entire system before I could answer the question.I would Vote in the best way to defend the Union.
None - I would stop voting after the Lib Dems
I would not use a second preference vote as I am not willing to vote for the other parties.
I would like the secrecy of my vote respected
Would not have listed a second preference
I would not give any other party my vote at present

If ‘Other’, please specify which party
all politicians are in it for them selfs
made mistake in last question.I did vote on 3rdMay election

If ‘Other’, please specify which party
did not vote as no liberal democrat candidate

If ‘Other’, please specify what reason
I voted for a good local independent candidate.
I liked the candidate and he had served me well in the past
Knew the candidate personally. No candidates from the main parties here.
I wanted to show my support for their stand on environmental issues. I didn't want them to actually win, because I don't trust them to well-govern in other policy areas, but thought they stood no chance of winning anyway, so that my second choice was my c
He was localto my area sowould have a better understanding of how my area is and what needs done to improve it and he was the only one to take time to visit me
I thought the candidate had the best ideas for the local community.
Council has been lib dem/labour for years and have made some very bad decisions over the past few years that they refused to take responsibility for
As ever, I do consider the party but in local elections the person is very important and some of the other candidate were not worth voting for. Therefore knowing the conservative candidate I decided she would be a very good person for the area
I voted for the particular candidate despite his party allegiance.
This counsellor has served local needs well and was the only one to inform me of local developments that affect me personally
I voted for a candidate I knew well and trusted to represent me well in the council.
Local representative has done a good job
I do no think that politics should come into local government
they were the best out of what was on offer
There were no candidates standing that I really wanted
A protest vote against our labour and our local councillor who is a bag of wind
I thought he was the best candidate (out of a bad selection)
The candidate had done most for the local area than any of the others in the past
liked the independant person's policies on local issues
Because of the candidates record as a councellor
good strong independent candidate,not much info on the indvidual councilors policies
All but one candidate was an Independent so I voted for the best person
I voted for a very good local candidate despite that person being a SNP moderate
I voted this way in an attempt to save my local accident and emergency department.
I voted for a local indipendent I know will do a good job for the community.
Voted for the current local councillor as i was pleased with his prior performance
The candidate has done alot of good in the area already.
I did not like the independents standing and voted for the only candidate on a party ticket
I did not want to vote for any of them.I had to vote for someone and felt it was time for a change as our councillors have done nothing forus.
I voted for a local person who had knowledge of the area.
It was the only party available that resembled SSP slightly
The independent candidate was against the proposed windfarm(s) on Lewis
I voted for the candidate, who has been a very good councilor for me
preferred that candidate. I think he will work well for the area
the party i prefer didnt have a candidate
The sitting independent councillor is hardworking, committed, independent and extremely popular locallly. You would think you were lucky to have such a councillor. Where I lived before they arn't like him.
Slow process leading up to a beliefe in indepdendence.
Glasgow is Labour dominated I wish to challenge that domination
Approved of the candidate and political alliance. No SSP candidate has ever stood in our ward before.
I voted for the candidate as I thought he was best qualified to do the job.
Wanted to show support for independent candidate, to encourage others in future. There's too much emphesis on parties in local politics.
I voted for an individual, his party was irrelevant
She is the only one you hear from during the rest of the time and she does not want trams which I agree with. Also she is not weighed down by party politics
The candidate's track record has been good, and he is one of the very few candidates representing a political party in the Highland Council elections
local person who knows our problems in this rural area
Wanted to change Labour domination of local politics
Voted for candidate (existing Councillor)
No green rep so prefer lib dems to other parties
Thought an independent may better represent the views of local people particulrly in reltion to building on the green belt!
Did not want to vote for the main parties
I felt that the independant candidate was going to look after our local concern - something that has been missing for the past few years
I wanted Labour to loose control of the Council and SNP had the best chance of taking control.
The Labour councillors in my area have been in power for more than two decades (in at least one case), and have done little, if anything, to improve the area. They are merely being re-elected on the power of their affiliation to Labour, which has a strong
I voted for an independent candidate whose views and policies came closest to my own thinking
Voted for an independent candidate as none of the mainstream parties appeal to me.
The candidate had done a good job of being our councillor since his appointment.
Again, purely tactical but it worked since the Council fell from SNP to NOC!!
Current local candidate and he is good for this area. Local council policies should be best for the area and not just follow party policies
I like to vote differently in local elections so that there is a balance of power across the political spectrum
I strongly agree with the convictions of the candidate concerned.
I know the candidate and he has been a good councillor for two terms now
Best candidate for the job in my opinion
We have an absolutely terrific local Labour councillor.
With the Ward changes, there was a possibility that islanders would be left without a councillor who was an islander. This would be totally unacceptable and undemocratic as we already are often disadvantaged because we live on an island. I therefore vot
a particularly good councillor, regardless of party
I thought that the STV system of voting gave me a possible opportunity (albeit small) to influence the composition of my local Council
I did not want a Labour council, there was no Liberal Democrat candidates sitting so it was a tactical vote
i did not want to vote for labour snp or conservative
The candidate works hard for the local area a nd stays locally
We needed a change of leadership in this area, it's been allowed to go to rack and ruin under Labour for too long
same as last written answer - they were closest to the things I agree with
party i usually vote for did not have a candidate
I wanted a balance between local and national representation
I thought he was the right man for the job as he represents my feelings locally
they had a good current record in my local council
Labour in my town has been cought with it's hand in the till.
I liked the candidate and do not want a Labour Majority on the council
snp looked better than labour and labour has sleaze up to its neck infecting all parts of the party
I voted for the candidate I felt had done most for my community regardless of the fact I do not support the party she stands for
I think party politics should be kept out of local government
We have to get away from the what in it for me labour
On this occasion I preferred the independent candidate.
I do not believe that party polotics have a place in local government
Local councillor has proven to be very good in local issues over last few years so voted for him, rather than his party.
was the only candidate who sent me any promotional material
Voted for existing man as he's been very good
Voted for candidate standing to save Portobello Park from development. Would have voted Labour but for their involvement in the debacle of the new campus of Edinburgh's Telford College and also their anti-East Edinburgh policies.
Voted for the candidate rather than party.
The candidate has stayed in the area all his life, and that is what got him my vote
I voted for the candidate regardless of party as I don't think parties are relevant in local elections and the candidate I voted for was the previous councillor and has done a good job. In no other circumstances would I vote for that party.
NO LIBERAL DEMOCRAT CANDIDATE ON BALLOT PAPER
lOCAL MAN kNOWN TO ME PERSONALLY WHO I KNOW WILL DO A GREAT JOB
I voted for the person I considered would work best for the community.
I voted for the individual candidate's policy
My ward is Labour/SNP split and I didn't like the idea of an SNP representative. Would probably prefer to vote Lib Dem in this election but they have no real chance of winning my ward.
Our local conservative councillor is extremely good, and has been for over 25 years
I appreciated what the local candidate had done for my area in the past
I voted for the individual I thought best for this constituency
Best local candidate with hard working track record
I was the candidate and could vote for myself!
Voted for last local councilor because he was very good
i thought the candidate was the best person for the job. He is an experienced councillor and has worked hard for the community. i would have voted for him whatever party he stood for.
All candidates, except 1 Lib.Dem, were independent. I voted for the best one.
I thought that he was the best candidate
The condidate is Edinburgh's existing Lord Provost and does a lot of good work, although in general, I am no longer supportive of the labour.
our local council at present disappoints me and when i listened to the ideas of snp i voted
In local government most of the candidates were independent and i chose the candidate because they were the right person for the job i did not consider their party
My preferred party did not stand a candidate in my ward.
voted for local person - living in the area
I thought the person I voted for was the best candidate
I voted for the person who has shown themselves to be very committed to the interests of local people, especially vunlerable people, over the last term.
I have lived in areas with really good Lib Dem-led councils in the past.
The man lived locally and seemed to have local issues at heart
To try and change the make-up of the council.
This party have been better during this last year on the things the council have done
Really disagree with the party, however the candidate has done much for the local area.
I detest Labour, but I voted for this partcular person as he had proved himself a very able Councillor and a real asset to the area.
I know the candidate and he is an honest, hard working person who champions local issues, most of which I agree with.
The canditate is well known in the local area.

If ‘Other’, please specify which party
I didn't use my second preference vote - deliberately
Solidarity - Scotland's Socialist Movement
Did not make a 2nd preference, as I was the candidate

If ‘Other’, please specify which party
I refuse to disclose details of who I have or would vote for

If 'other' quality, please specify
To represent the people who voted for them.
MSPs should be intelligent, honest and altruistic
to speak their own mind and the area they represent, speak up for injustice regardless ofparty politics
To work in the best interests of the nation
to spend a lot of time in their area getting to know and help their constituents
speak for area and help individual voters. one persons problem will highlight a general problem suffered by many
I think the Scottish Parliament should be abolished
To look at developing the Scottish economy and following policies which help scottish people.
TO HAVE A FUNCTIONING BRAIN INSIDE THEIR SKULLS.
They should have the interests of ALL Scotland to the front of their mind, in preference to local issues
integrity, total honesty and a business mind
To speak up for the people with least money and power
loyal to the public who voted to his or her's party (don't tell lies)
to do what they believe to be right for the good of their constituents and the country
I think it is about a balance between all of these things, they have to believe in what they represent personally, what they think is best for their area and there would be little point of being part of a party if you did not feel some sort of unity. They
Honesty - implement the proposed policies by which they have won votes.
Broad mindedness - being able to look beyond Scotland, no racism towards the English
Look out for the interests of those who need their input most
Get their noses out of the trough and work for the benefit of the majority in Scotland, NOT a minority group

If 'other' quality, please specify
To represent the people who voted for them.
They should be honest, altruistic and intelligent
to speak their own mind and the area they represent, speak up for injustice regardless ofparty politics
to make good decisions for the local area
represent their area and solve voters problems which will be shared by many others
TO DO SOME MEANINGFUL WORK INSTEAD OF EXPENSES-CLAIMING
should be more careful with public money and answerable to the public
loyal to the public who voted to his or her's party (don't tell lies)

If 'other' description, please specify
Canadian born with strong BRITISH tendencies
I've given up on patriotism - it's the last resort of the scoundrel
Half English half Belgain living in Scotland
I'm a Shetlander and don't feel particularly Scottish or British
I live in Scotland but was not born here so cannot claim to be Scottish. I see myself as British - but wish I was Scottish
I'm ethnically Chinese, so I can't really make any comment.
basically i'm english living in Scotland so none of these apply
i am english but try t be loyal to scotland
English born, long resident in Scotland. Feel Scottish then British, but am not really.
I am a londoner, i live in scotland but was born in england, however i would never say I am british or english
I am British not Scottish but I identify most with Scotland
Being Dutch and having spent half my life in Scotland, I feel more Scottish than Dutch, and more Scottish than British
More Ulsterish than Scottish or Btitish.
Welsh but with loyalty to Scotland through marriage
More Irish than Scottish, and more Scottish than British
British, but English preferring to live in Scotland

If 'Other', please specify where
if a man is borne in a stable, it doesn't mean he's a horse

If 'Other' party, please specify
Voted for my MP who is the speaker and is supported by the three major parties.

If 'Other' party, please specify
Was candidate for Scottish People's Alliance

Most important issue when deciding how to vote in the SP election?
Scrapping the Council Tax and Replacing With an Income Tax
To get rid of the Labour Party coalition.
Get Labour out, keep a good local candidate.
Potential for a move towards independence
Return of the student grant and abolition of tuition fees.
Local Taxes and how it affects senior citizens
Strength to fight to keep Scotland together
THe state of NHS and thousands of junior doctors being made redundant and MTAS.
I voted to ensure that the SNP did not get a chance to propose independence.
not voting for any of the main parties / any overly socialist parties
Message to UK government that Scotland does not support UK current defence, foreign and energy policies..
Protecting civil liberties and opposing ID Cards
to avoid snp getting in and taking us to independance and raising taxes
An indication that the views and needs of the Scottish people was understood and of first priority and not the personal or party views of those in Holyrood .Also some indication that common sense will prevail with regard to the 'loss of Scottish identity
I did not want the SNP to get in and I do not like Labour, so I would have voted for the Conservatives.
Getting rid of the nuclear base on the Clyde
The current crime laws allowing the early release of prisioners.
What was best for the constituency and the country
Potential of increased income tax to replace council tax
to get more power for the scottish parliament
The chance to vote in a referendum on Scottish Independence
I do not vote as I feel that you cannot trust any Political party
Continued help for island residents such as the Air Discount Scheme and the Northlink/CalMac contracts.
I did not want the SNP to get power and make Scotland independent
interests of scotland - taxation, health service, policing, parliamentary powers - things that I consider specific to scotland
The prospect of a referendum on independence.
Independence would be dreadful for Scotland
Get rid of McConnell and co. waste of space and embarrassing for scotland
Change in local taxation is now required
None as I knew I wasn't going to be able to vote this year
Keeping our local hospital open and the job losses at Faslane if Trident was done away with.
to vote for a party that did not believe in separation from the UK
Abolition of council tax in favour of a local income tax
I don’t want England to end up with more gay rights that Scotland. I can see this happening if Scotland becomes independent.
Eventual Independence which will come when the Scottish public realise we can do a much better job for ourselves - not taking the medicine for diseases we don't have as is the case right now!
Retaining the Union between Scotland and England
Green issues, plus I did not want the SNP to win.
Having a party in power in Scotland that is not controlled by a party in Westminster
Immigration into scotland is one of the biggest issues I would have like to have seen tackled.
The thought of Smart Alec Salmond as First Minister
I did not vote because no issue was more important than any other to me at this time. In fact none of the parties appealed to me and recently I have trusted them all less and less over the years.
ensuring that Scotland remained in the UK
Redistribution of wealth and policies that would affect this.
why have we got apartheid schools in scotland?
Scottish Labour's unconditional support for the disastrous attack on Iraq
The ineptitude of the previous representative
more help for pensioners and a change in council tax
Scotland being as independent of the rest of the UK as possible, preferably leading to total Independence.
Labour's failures to (a) establish an independent Scottish voice, and (b) see off Blair
Scottish independence - voted Conservative to try and keep the SNP out of power.
The party that was putting Scotland first
The Iraq war. Although this is not a devolved matter, the fact that there the former administration had close links with the Iraq war and that Mr McConnell openly supported it meant tha I could no longer support such a party and a coallition.
The intention of th parties I voted for to leave the UK
See if a different party would do a better job!
How the particular person and or party would best represent my views and issues.
To have someone who would not just toe the party line
Making the Scottish Parliament look like a mature, reflective body, rather than a nursery school!
The referendum for Scottish independence and i think SNP are a better party than any of the others.
Opposition to independence and scotlands own taxation system.
scotlands parliment to be run but scootish people an not from westminster
Aspiring to something better and stronger mission
Pensions linked to average earnings. Local Taxation
Selling of green belt land to build houses
Factors that impact me such as council tax (I pay 75% as a single person) or parties interested in cleaning up the environment and dealing with anti-social behaviour
as has happened in other smaller countries throughout the World since the collapse of Communism I would like to see Scotland as an Independent Nation as I believe we can, if Montenegro and the likes can then we Gods choosen people, the lost tribe of Israe
Independence in Constituency vote and Environment in Regional vote
To try and maintain control over this country
ANYTHING to make difficulty for NuLabour
More devolved decision making for Scotland & Council Tax reform.
Who I thought would make the best First Minister/MSP/councillor out of the choices presented to me.
Showing the Government that people are sick of them ruining this country for native Britons with imported third world cultures and immigrants.
The party had to have an all round approach schools health pensioners
Getting honesty and integrity back into politics by putting a complacent Labour government out of power.
to get the independency issue forward whether it means a referendum or not but at least it will be raised
The Independance issue, break-up of the Union and hatred of the SNP as a party.
I want to see a stronger Conservative representation in the Scottish Parliament and think their policies would benefit Scotland. My only disagreement with Tory thoughts is on independence but I think their position is slowly changing towards agreeing to
Policing.....we have NONE, except for a drive by car covering around 20 miles in all directions, including the major North/South Motorway.
Future of Scotland, independent or not and proposed referendum .
Speaking up on Scottish issues, and not being controlled or interfered with by London-based parties.
Scrapping council tax in favour of Local Income Tax
Made decision using a range of criteria.
Getting rid of New Labour in Scotland / sending a message to the New Labour nationally.
I hate the SNP and their policy on council in particular tax was a huge issue
None, but if you don't vote you have no right to complain.
Getting MORE from, and for, the government of my country, Scotland.
I want better, more local government for Scotland
LEVEL OF SELF INTEREST AMONGST POLITICIANS
A party that would advocate according to what was in Scotland's best interests, rather than being directed by the british government.
I wanted to raise the average intellectual ability of the cabinet by electing one proper statesman,ie Salmond
The threat of an independence referendum(SNP)
I wanted labour out and enviromental issues to be taken more seriously
Scottish people controlling there own affairs
Level of respect and constructive policy for socially excluded people
Economic prospects for scotland in the future
To have a say in Scotland deciding it's own future.
getting rid of labour/ education @ law and order
Military actions in Iraq and Afgahnistan
Not to allow Scotland to become independent and separate from the remainder of the UK
Avoiding the SNP in power- bad for Scotland and bad for Edinburgh specifically- promises to cut our funding for trams and airport rail links...clear bias against the East of Scotland (few SNP voters)
jack mcconnell said motherwell was a pigsty
Poor performance of Labour/Lib dem Coalition Whilst in office
local income tax and getting rid of council tax
There was no single issue for me, my main concerns were getting rid of nuclear weapons, ending the war with Iraq, putting the funding saved from the first two into the NHS and Education and pension and benefit systems. I also feel a great need for better
Stopping independence and reducing powers of Scottish Parliament
Labour's disregard for the views of the electorate.
Giving us Scots more choice and opportunity, am totally sick of a Labour govmnt and then not listening to us (the war a prime example)
constitutional matters - greater powers for holyrood
Get rid of Labour and Lib Dem Coalitiopnm
Ability to form an effective administration
More power for the Scottish Parliament leading to possible independance
That Labour learned a lesson not to take voters for granted
Getting rid of Labour, as a 72 year old Pensioner Labour has done nothing for me. I am worse of. Labour are more interested in One Parent Families and Children.
do not want scotland to go independant from uk did not want to vote lib dem,as they would tax car drivers to death,saying it would be more green. i love the freedom my car gives me and would not support any one who would try to take that away from me.
opportunity for further powers for scotland
I wanted a new Government and in particular a new MSP, we got the new Government but not a new MSP unfortunately
I want my country to be self running, and independent of the Colonial British Empire, which wages war illegally against sovereign states and is a lackey to the USA.I am Scottish and European not English & American.
The sleaze, corruption and double standard of the Labour Party
I like Labour as our Government in scotland and the UK. I don't like Alex Salmond I think he justs wants to win the electioon to show that SNP can do it! However, not much faith in his politics and his ideas!
For Scotland to remain as part of the United Kingdom.
give labour a kicking over sleaze and the iraq war
what were the parties issues? tax tax tax and more tax
No single issue; main issues were Trident replacement, health and education.
What it would mean for ME as an individual
giving labour a good kicking, over their policies for scotland
When Scotland will receive the monies from North Sea oil
Possibility of independence - I'm against it!
I think Alex Salmond will be a good First Minister.
To break the stranglehold of Labour in Scotland and allow for a broader political perspective
How the ocutnry wil lbe run for the next 4 years
I'm just working class I'v just got to vote as I've been brain washed by all politcal party's since I was 21...
I would have liked to vote, but do not have the right, as I am not a British citizen.
immigration law and order and upholding christian values with regard to adoption and same sex couples
Not becoming independent from England/Wales
past time for a major change in british politics
smaller class sizes reduction of student debt
I did not have confidence in any party so did not vote
That the party I voted for put Scottish interests first and did not owe any allegiance to a British political party
Getting Scotland's economy moving forward instead of stagnating further
the council tax being abolished eventually
To prevent the SNP taking control of the Scottish Parliament
The constitutional position of Scotland (ie no change, devolution with more powers, independence).
monklands hospital accident and emergency down-grading
I wanted to keep the craxy nationalists out as they lack the talent charisma to lead scoland. I am also very very very opposed to separatism. Alex salmond is also appaulingly smug and untrustworthy. Labour has been good in scotland both and westmisnter
Trident must not be renewed it is an abomination
Gettng the chance of an Independance referendum
Whats best for Scotland and its population
The issues presented by parties, how trustworthy they appear. Sometimes it seems like it's picking the best from a bad bunch to be honest! I think some of the parties say they will do things which are unrealistic. I think it would be benefical to make the
looking after the scottish economy within the UK
labours inaction and the implementation of the smoking ban
Government focussed on Scotland and Scottish needs.
Who do I think is the most competent person, who'll take an active roll.
The party who could convince me most that they had the Scottish populations best interests at heart.
That labour should not have an overwhelming majority
That the party willl look after the more vulnerable of our society eg aged and those will health problems (mental and physical)
I want Scotland to regain its independence
The strategic direction of the NHS in Scotland
what they plan to do with anti-social behaviour
don't care attitude of the big parties they do what they please and ignore the peoples need's
to stop the snp from making any moves for independence for scotland and on the whole i believe better the devil you know
who is best for scotland as part of the uk
Scottish Independence. The last referrendum was unfairly loaded. I feel SNP was the ONLY party who would hold a new referrendum where a 51% majority would decide. Then, whatever way the vote goes, the decision will be final. Personally I'm against indepen
The possibility of Scotland becoming independent.
To avoid Scotland going down the road to independence
Possiblity of Scotland breaking away from the UK.
never voted in the Scottish Paliament Election
A party willing to speak out and represent Scotland rather than siding with Westminster on all aspects e.g. Iraq war
A need to change the Scottish Parliament make up
to stop the bloody snp from gettin ma vote
Who was most likely to continue with a stable economy
It was voting for a party that is wholly based in Scotland and not affiliated with any parties in England, and a party that would put Scotland first
I DO NOT WANT AN INDEPENTDENT SCOTLAND AND SO HAD TO VOTE AGAINST THAT
Tackling crime and anti social behaviour.
i thought about the parties and voted for the party i prefer and to see if there would be the possibility of a co alision scottish government.
Improving health care, with the emphasis on dental care.
council tax too high need another way of paying 4 services
hoping that pensioners would be given a better deal with reduced council tax etc
no one issue was more important than others, but there was a lot of important issues.
did not even get my voting card through!
financial impact on me personally i.e introduction of local income tax etc.
To try and stop the SNP gaining a seat in my constituency
The possibility of increasing the Scottish Parliament's powers
SNP want independence - I don't (I really am unsure whether they bothered having any of their own policies besides this) - The local income tax idea was the liberal democrat's that they borrowed.
I didnt want snp tp win as i dont want independance for Scotland.
Future of health service, schools and defence
Voting for the right party with the right vies for my area
The impending disaster of global climate change and rising sea levels.
To have people realise Scotland is a COUNTRY not a STATE!!
for diffrent goverment than lib lab gov.
Changing the law to allow grandparents the legal right to contact grandchildren.
ensuring there is a range of representation in the Scottish parliament (i.e. not just the main parties)
Increasing standards for my own family life.
I am a member of the Scottish National party
Did not want Scotland to become independant.
the mess that labour have made of the war in iraq

If 'Other', please specify which party
Any party that is nit willing to jump into bed with Labour and get tarred with the same brush!
no party is commited to one country , one parliment
I find all parties lacking in constructive policies for socially excluded people
non out right party would cover what i would like
Oh dear, another crap question from YouGov. What does 'handle this issue' mean exactly?